tech
Flock Safety tries to curb police abuse of its surveillance cameras after scandals
CEO announces steps after reports that system is used to target immigrants or people seeking out-of-state abortions
TL;DR
- Flock Safety is mandating new features to audit law enforcement's use of its surveillance cameras.
- These changes come after reports of officers abusing the system to stalk ex-partners and target immigrants or those seeking abortions.
- Mandatory features include the Audit Assistance tool, which flags abnormal activity for review.
- The default license plate scan retention period is reduced from 30 days to seven days, though agencies can extend it.
- Critics argue the new features are insufficient and that police departments will still police themselves.
- Over 80 cities are considering or have dropped contracts with Flock Safety due to privacy concerns and misuse reports.